Ragdale Hall Spa sold to US investment group

One of the UK’s most well-known spa destinations, Ragdale Hall Spa, has been sold to US-based Fortress Investment Group.

This transfer of ownership will see Michael Isaacs and Penny Nesbitt step away from the family-run business after 35 years at the helm.

Fortress Investment Group is a global investment manager with a portfolio in hospitality, including Punch Taverns, Majestic Wines, and more recently, the Loungers group.

The deal promises to bring “renewed energy” and investment to the Leicestershire-based spa.

Completing the acquisition marks Fortress’s strategic entry into the UK spa resort sector, with Ragdale Hall positioned as the flagship asset for future growth.

Under new ownership

Commenting on the deal, Isaacs and Nesbitt said, “After 35 years as a family-run business, we’ve decided it’s the right time to pass Ragdale on to new ownership. It has been a major part of our lives, and we’re proud of the business we’ve built.

“We leave with deep appreciation for our team, our guests, and the local community, and with confidence that Ragdale is in good hands for the future.”

The existing leadership team, led by managing director, Hugh Wilson and commercial and HR director Allison Garner, will continue in their roles, ensuring the continuity of Ragdale’s distinctive culture and values.

The team plan to continue to provide exceptional guest experiences with no immediate changes to how the spa is run.

Strategic plan

In a move designed to boost Ragdale’s strategic capabilities, Fortress has appointed Davidson Hospitality Group as an operational partner.

Davidson is a hospitality management company with a portfolio of 85 hotels and resorts and over 240 F&B venues across the United States. It will provide advisory support to the Ragdale team with apparently no restructuring of Ragdale’s current workforce.

It is understood that Fortress will continue to invest in and expand Ragdale. It also plans to pursue a consolidation strategy in the UK spa resort sector, leveraging the Ragdale teams’ experience and expertise.

The transaction signals an exciting new phase for Ragdale Hall Spa, ensuring its continued place as a market leader in the UK’s thriving spa industry.

About Ragdale Hall

Ragdale Hall Spa is a multi-award-winning dedicated spa and hotel based in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, UK.

The property opened as a spa in 1973 and features extensive wellness facilities including six pools and a comprehensive treatment menu.

With over 100 therapists and an innovative fitness and relaxation programme of studio, pool-based and outdoor activities, guests are ensured a full wellbeing experience.

The team currently partner with Elemis, Medik8, SeaMagik, Clarins and HD Brows.

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